Add zing to your cooking routine by using fresh citrus. Citrus is typically available all year long, though its official season is November-January. Lemons and limes are the usual go-to choices for adding a splash of bright flavor to fish, sautéed greens, roasted vegetables, and crisp salads, but don’t dismiss oranges, tangerines, and grapefruits, which add sunny notes, too. It’s for these reasons we incorporate citrus into so many of our fresh meals delivered! There are many delicious, healthy fruits that fall into the citrus category: blood oranges, bitter oranges, clementines, tangerines, tangelos, and pomelos are just a few examples. We like to use local and seasonal citrus whenever possible with both our fresh meals delivered and our boutique catering services.
You can utilize these tart and tangy ingredients in cocktails, appetizers, salad dressings, main dishes (especially fish and chicken), marinades, as garnishes and even in desserts. Squeeze lemon juice into a fruit puree or fruit salad to make its flavor pop. With rice and grain sides, swap out a little water with some citrus juice for a tasty twist.
The trick to a light and flavorful dish is just adding a splash of citrus. It adds a punch of flavor without any added fat, calories, or cholesterol. A little citrus zip goes a long way and can overpower your dish very quickly. Too much can make your food bitter. Start with just a small amount, then add a little at a time until you reach your desired flavor.
You can mellow the flavor of tart lemons, limes, and grapefruit by cooking them, simply slice the whole fruit and either roast directly on the pan with your meat and veggies, or place on the grill for a minute or two until charred.
Looking to hydrate more? A spritz or slice of fresh citrus does wonders for a glass of water. Need a morning boost? It’s so easy to add citrus to a breakfast smoothie.
Citrus foods, in general, contain unique compounds that are believed to promote heart health and grapefruit in particular, research has shown, can halt production of the bad cholesterol (LDL levels) in the liver.
As we enter the winter season, we know that schedules get busy as the holidays come roaring in. Let us help maintain your family’s weekly health routine with Chef Wes’ meal delivery. Drop us a line and let us know how we can help simplify your holiday routines!
